Glossary
Adhesions: Scarring that binds together the surfaces of tissues.
Biopsy: A minor surgical procedure to remove a small piece of tissue that is then examined under a microscope in a laboratory.
Bladder: A muscular organ in which urine is stored.
Endometriosis: A condition in which tissue similar to that normally lining the uterus is found outside of the uterus, usually on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic structures.
Endometrium: The lining of the uterus.
Estrogen: A female hormone produced in the ovaries.
Fallopian Tubes: Tubes through which an egg travels from the ovary to the uterus.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonists: Medical therapy used to block the effects of certain hormones.
Hormone: A substance produced by the body to control the functions of various organs.
Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus.
Infertility: A condition in which a couple has been unable to get pregnant after 12 months without the use of any form of birth control.
Inflammation: Pain, swelling, redness, and irritation of tissues in the body.
Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure in which an instrument called a laparoscope is inserted into the pelvic cavity through small incisions. The laparoscope is used to view the pelvic organs. Other instruments can be used with it to perform surgery.
Ovaries: Two glands, located on either side of the uterus, that contain the eggs released at ovulation and that produce hormones.
Pelvic Exam: A physical examination of a woman’s reproductive organs.
Peritoneum: The membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and surrounds the internal organs.
Progestin: A synthetic form of progesterone that is similar to the hormone produced naturally by the body.
Rectum: The last part of the digestive tract.
Ureters: A pair of tubes, each leading from one of the kidneys to the bladder.
Uterus: A muscular organ located in the female pelvis that contains and nourishes the developing fetus during pregnancy.